Thieves attack Irvine Old Parish Church to steal bronze

Thieves set fire to Irvine's Old Parish Church to steal bronze (Image: The Irvine Herald)

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It was the smell of smoke on Sunday morning that led to parishioner Margaret Greenlees making the shocking discovery that Irvine Old Parish Church had been set on fire.

The 18th century doors had been set alight in a bid to take the bronze hinges off.

The thieves also attempted to take cabling from the church during the attack on Thursday night.

David Whitelaw, of Irvine Old Parish Church, said: “The door has sustained severe damage but miraculously, the fire never reached higher or wider to set fire to the varnished wainscoating which could have had a devastating effect on the entire building.

“For some time now the Kirk Session has requested North Ayrshire Council to install sympathetic lighting within the graveyard which is a public right of way from Kirk Vennel to Kirkgate and, as such, is owned and maintained by the local council. However, we still await any progress on this.”

A spokesman for Irvine police said: “On September 27 Police Scotland received a report of a fire raising at Irvine Parish Church.

“At some time between 21.30pm on September 26 and 10am on September 27, the side doors at the church were set alight and decorative door hinges removed.

“Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”